[gene.data per A C MYERS; he & his family came from Ireland in about 1712 and settled in New Castle co,DE; received at Newark MM,DE on 4 6M 1716 on certificate from Moate Mtg, County of West Meath, Ireland; in 1717 he erected a fine stone house, barn, & outbuildings on his Plantation in DE; he is said by tradition to have been murdered by a servant in his own barn for the gold he always carried on his person]

b.ca.1700, County Wicklow, IRELAND; son of Robert JOHNSON (ca.1665- ? ) & Margaret BROITHWAITE; [gene.data per A C MYERS]

(8) Ann HADLEY,

b. 7 12M 1717/8, Chester co,PA;

d.18 Dec 1750 [per AF]

marr.(12 4M 1735, New Garden MM, Chester co,PA) Richard GREGG,

b.ca.1714, New Castle co,DE; son of George GREGG (ca.1674-1744) & Sarah HOGG;

Simon Hadley II, b in 1675 in County Kings (now Offaly), Ireland, brought his wife Ruth and six children to America during the year 1712.

He purchased 1000 acres of land about 35 mi southwest of Philadelphia, where he lived until his death in 1756. In 1717 he build a house on his acreage, which was so well constructed that now, after 250 years, it is still (1973) standing and occupied. The house is located on Line Stone Rd, Hockessin, DE, about 10 miles northwest of Wilmington, DE, off from Route 41.

Simon was a prominent and successful farmer. He was also an active member of the New Garden MM, located in New Garden Twp, Chester Co., PA, to the north of his farm. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1726, re-appointed in 1727 and 1733. He further served at various times as Judge of the New Castle (DE) Courts.

7. Katherine, born 25 April 1715, married Robert Johnson; Anne, born 7 Fe bruary 1718, married Richard Gregg.1

When Simon I moved from Dublin to Moate in 1694, he had probably sold h is business and purchased land in the Quaker Community of Moate.

Simon II married Ruth Keran about 1697 in Moate. When Simon I died in 1711, Simon II was not mentioned in the will, and it has been supposed that his father had already provided for him. It is a possibility that Simon Jr. was under some durress prior to his father's demise. The facts that there is no record of the ship they came to Pennsylvania aboard, and also that they did not petition for removal until 1716, support this notion. It's a possibility that Simon Jr. was in trouble with the authorities, left in a hurry, and didn't turn up until 1716. In early eighteenth century Ireland, the Quakers and other "radical" (for the time) religious groups were getting vigorous harassment from the English-controlled establishment. They were forced to take oaths and pay tithes. When Simon II received his inheritance, he was likely anxious to leave for Pennsylvania, the "promised land" for Friends.

Simon and Ruth came to Pennsylvania in 1712 but the ship they came on has never been discovered. They may have been uncertain about their plans on staying, as their certificate of removal was not received from the Moate Meeting until 6, 4, 1716.

(2) They purchased a large tract of land in what was then the Manor of Steyning, later New Garden Township, Chester Co., Pennsylvania. This manor contained over 15,000 acres, about 30 miles from Philadelphia. Other landowners in Steyning Manor were the Lindleys, Starrs, Huttons, Rutledges, Millers, Rowlands, and Johnsons. Many of them had been "friends" in Ireland, and others related by blood or marriage.

(3) In 1713 the Friends of Steyning Manor built a meeting house and Simon Hadley II was one of the four trustees named to hold land for the Meeting. The early community was comprised of mostly temporary first homes. In 1717 Simon built a house that was referred to as a mansion in its time. The house has a pointed gable window in the front with a white stone slab sunk into the wall. On the slab is carved "S + R.H. 1717", the in itials of Simon and his wife Ruth. The house is still standing today (1999) and has continually been inhabited for 2 3/4 centuries. Simons estate was called Messuage Plantation.

In 1726, Simon Hadley was appointed Justice of the Peace by Governor Fletcher, who was acting for the Penns. He was recommissioned seven years la ter and served in this capacity for many years.

(4) He also served as Judge of the Newcastle County Courts.

(5) As Simon's sons grew to manhood, he helped them by granting them land of their own. In 1726, Simon made over a tract to his son Joshua Hadley. The deed is preserved in Westchester, PA and reads a follows:

"To all Christian people to whom these presents shall come, I Simon Hadly of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, send greetings. Know ye that I, Simon Hadly, for and in consideration of the love, goodwill, and affection which I have and do bear towards my living son, Joshua Hadley of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle aforesaid, have given and granted and by these present do fully, freely, clearly and absolutely give and grant unto the said Joshua Hadly, his heirs and assigns all that piece or parcel of land, thence East by the land of Joseph Hadly 179 perches to a post, thence North 179 perches to a Mulberry tree, thence West 179 perches to a post thence South by the land of Daniel Worsly 179 perches to the place of beginning, containing 200 acres situated in Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle aforesaid, together with the right, title, interest, claim, and demand whatsoever which I now have or which any or either of my heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns may hereafter have of, to, or in the said granted premises or any part thereof to have and to hold the said 200 acres of land unto him the said Joshua Hadly , his heirs and assigns forever absolutely without any manner of condition, as I, said Simon Hadly, have fully and freely and absolutely and of my own accord seat and put in further testimony in witness whereof I have hereunto seat my hand and seal this 12th day of the 10th month in the year 1726."

(6) Two years later, in 1728, Joshua filed a request, through his father, to the Provincial Board of Property in Philadelphia for an additional 1 ,000 acres on Fishing Creek.

(7) After half a century of marriage, Simon lost his wife, Ruth, who died 12 mo. 18, 1751. Simon then made out his first will, that divided his lands, possessions, and moneys between his children and grandchildren . Simon remarried Phoebe Grubb Buffington, a minister among Friends.

...........

1 Debrett p. 11 - from Myers p. 340

2 Chalmers from Burke - Peerage and Baronageø

3 Chalmers p. 17

4 Pennsylvania archives - Chalmers p. 18

5 Roundtree - Ibid

.............

In 1754, Simon Hadley wrote to Thomas Woodward, a surveyor and scrivene r as follows:

"New Castle County 3 mo. 3, 1754.

Respected friend, Thomas Woodward;

My wife (Phoebe) hath a desire for to see thee for she hath a writing to draw and she is desirous that thou should draw it, therefore I desire thee come as soon as possible and thow wilt oblige thy friend to serve thee, Simon Hadly. I have got some money for thee from John Buhoman"

(8) By this time, 1754, the Delaware line had been drawn directly throug h Simons land, placing his legal residence in New Castle, Delaware.

Family legend says Simon was killed in his stone barn by a servant for the large sum of money he is said to have carried with him at all times. There are no records to prove this, but from a letter written by Hannah (Hadly) Stanfield from North Carolina to her stepmother (Phoebe), it is shown that Simon died suddenly in 1756.

"Respected Mother

This comes to let thee know that I and my family is in good health at present, hoping that these few lines will find thee and thine in the same, and I have great cause to be thankful to the Divine Being for it. I received thy letter dated the 31st of the 5th month 1756, and was glad to hear of thy welfare and a true account of my respected fathers sudden death. Thy brother, Richard Beson, was here at my house a few days ago. He told me that his wife and family was well and all of our friends here is reasonably well as far as I know, so not having much more to add, I shall conclude with my love to thee and thine and remain they loving daughter, ye 24th of ye 7th month, 1756. Hannah Stanfield" (9)

9 Hannah (Hadley) Stanfield was Simon and Ruths fifth child. She died 5 mo. 31, 1783, and was buried at Cane Creek, North Carolina at the age of 73.

...........

Simon Hadleys last will made several changes from his earlier one. These include some 600 acres of land not mentioned but in the the previous will. The land was probably granted to his eldest sons, Joseph and Joshua , who were barely remembered compared to Simon's grandchildren. The last will was written in 1755 and recorded in 1756 and reads as follows:

"Know all men by these presents that I, Simon Hadly of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, yeoman, calling to mind the mortality of my body, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, and as touching such worldly estate wherewith it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I do give, devise, and dispose of the same in the manner and form following: First, it is my will that my funeral charge and just debts be first paid.

It is my will and I do leave my beloved wife, Phoebe Hadly _____pounds, current money to be paid her six months after my death, to be paid by my executors, hereinafter mentioned, her chaise and chaise-horse, my riding mare and the two best cows I have, besides what I have left her in my marriage settlement with her, and as much of the furniture of the house as she will think fit to take, to the value of ________pounds and no more, which shall be in full of my real and personal estate.

Imprimus, _____I give, devise and bequeath unto my grandson Simon Hadley, son of my son Joshua Hadley, the Messuage plantation and tract of land I now live on, bounded and described as follows: Viz. Beginning at a corner post, being a corner of Jacob Johns lands thence by his line east 300 perches to a corner white oak in the Manor line, thereon south by the said line 217 perches to a corner hickory, thence west by the land now seated by my grandson, John Hadley, 73 perches to a post, thence north 31 degrees, west 38 perches to a black oak, thence north 50 degrees west 48 perches and a half to a gum tree, thence north 60 degrees west 137 perches and a half to another gum, thence north 20 degrees, west 19 perches to a post, thence north 69 degrees, 59 perches to a post in William Rows line, thence north by the same 46 perches to the place of beginning, contain - 260 acres be the same more or less, making the bounds aforesaid, with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging, to hold to him, my said grandson, Simon Hadley, and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever, but if my said grandson should depart this life without lawful issue, then it is my will and I do give and devise the same Messuage plantation and tract of land unto my grandson, Jeremiah Hadley, son of my said son, Joshua Hadley, to hold to him and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever, but if he should depart this life without male heirs as above, then and in such case I give and devise and bequeath the said Messuage plantation and tract of land and premises unto the next male heirs as consanguinity to him and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever. I also give and bequeath unto my said grandson, Simon Hadley, my clock and walnut clothes press which stands in one of the upper rooms and the sum of 10 pounds lawful money, all of which several bequests to be possessed by him when he shall arrive at the respective age of 21 years.

I give and bequeath unto my grandson, Simon Johnson, son of Robert Johnson, certain plantation and tract of land lying contiguous to the above land devised to my grandson, Simon Hadley, bounded and described as followeth; (Viz, Beginning at a corner mulberry tree being a corner of a corner post of the above land devised to my said grandson, Simon Hadley, thence south 69 degrees, east by the said tract 59 perches to a post and south 20 degrees, east 19 perches to a gum tree and south 60 degrees, east 137 perches and a half to another gum and south 50 degrees, west 48 perches and a half to a corner black oak and south 31 degrees, east 38 perches to a corner post in a line of the land seated by my said grandson John Hadley, thence west by the same 57 perches to a corner black oak in a line of the aforesaid Robert Johnson land, thence north by the same 37 perches to the place of the beginning, containing by estimation 112 acres be the same more or less within the bounds aforesaid, with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining, to hold to him, my said grandson, Simon Johnson, and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever, but if he my said grandson, Simon Johnson should happen to depart this life without male heirs as above, then and in such case I give, devise and bequeath the said tract of land and premises unto the next male heirs by consanguinity to him, my said grandson, and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever, to be possessed by my said grandson when he shall arrive at the respective age of 21 years.

I do give and bequeath to my grandson, John Hadley, son of my son Joseph Hadley, and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever, a plantation or tract of land hereinafter mentioned. but if he should depart this life without male heirs, then in such case, it is my will and I do give and bequeath the said plantation and tract of land to the next male heir by blood to him and his heirs forever, said plantation and tract of land to be bounded as followeth; Beginning at a corner black oak in the line of the said Robert Johnson's land, thence east 130 perches to a corner hickory tree in the said Manor line, thence by the said line south 185 perches to a corner oak sapling (faded out) containing within the said bounds 150 acres of land, be the same more or less, and I do bequeath to my said grandson, John Hadley, 10 pounds current money.

I do give and bequeath a plantation or tract of land to _________ Johnson in the Letitia Aubrey Manor containing 93 acres and 66 perches of land. I have a deed for the same and recorded in the name of my grandson, Simon Gregg, son of Richard Gregg departed, and Anne his wife, my daughter, to him and male heirs of his body lawfully begotten as above, but should he depart this life, it is my will and I do give the said plantation and tract of land to the next male heirs by blood to him and the male heirs of his body legally begotten forever, and it is my will that my executors hereinafter named, rent the above plantations to good tenants until my said grandsons arrive #at the age of 21 years, that all of my said grandsons shall pay the ___________due on each of their plantations when lawfully ____(faded out)_____.

I do leave my said son, Joseph Hadley, half of my wearing apparel and 10 pounds current money, which shall be his full portion and share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave my daughter, Deborah Howel, wife of Jacob Howel, 10 pounds current money and I do leave to the said Jacob Howel, 10 pounds current money, which shall be in full their portion and share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my daughter, Hannah Stanfield, widow of John Stanfield , 50 pounds current money which shall be paid in full of her portion and share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my daughter, Ruth Lindley, wife to Thomas Lindley, 10 pounds current money, which shall be their full share of my real and pe rsonal estate. I do leave to my daughter, Katherine Johnson, wife to Robert Johnson, the sum of 10 pounds of current money, and I do leave to the said Robert Johnson, the sum of 10 pounds current money, which shall be their full share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my daughter Anne Gregg, widow of Richard Gregg departed, the sum of 40 pounds current money which shall be in full of her portion and share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave my son, Joshua Hadley, 10 pounds current money and half of my wearing apparel which shall be in full of his portion and share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my grand-daughter, Elizabeth Thompson, wife to James Thompson, 40 pounds current money and I do leave to my grand-daughter, Deborah Curle, wife of John Curle, the sum of 5 pounds of current money, and to my grand-daughter Hannah Curle, wife to Samuel Curle the sum of 40 pounds current money, all of them children of my son Joseph Hadley.

I do leave to my grand-children Ruth Marshall, wife to John Marshall, the sum of 20 pounds current money, and I do leave to Thomas Hadley , the sum of 40 pounds current money, and I do leave to Sarah Fred, wife to Joseph Fred, the sum of 50 pounds current money, and I do leave to Mary Hadley the sum of 60 pounds current money, and I do leave to Jeremiah Hadley the sum of 60 pounds current money, and I do leave to Joshua Hadley, Jr. the sum of 60 pounds current money, and I do leave to Joseph Hadley Jr. the sum of 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Deborah Hadley 60 pounds current money and I do leave Hannah Hadley the sum of 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Catherine Hadley, the sum of 60 pounds current money, all of them children of my son Joshua Hadley.

I do leave to my grand-children to wit, I do leave to Simon Dixon 55 pounds current money, and I do leave Rebecca Marshall wife to William Marshall, 30 pounds current money and I do leave Ruth Dixon 60 pounds current money and I do leave to John Stanfield, Jr. the sum of 50 pounds current money, and I do leave Thomas Stanfield 50 pounds current money, and I do leave Samuel Stanfield 50 pounds current money, all of them children of my said daughter Hannah Stanfield, widow and relict of John Stanfield departed.

I do leave to my grandchildren, to Catherine Lindley, 60 pounds current money, and I do leave James Lindley 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Simon Lindley 60 pounds current money and I do leave Ruth Lindley, 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Mary Lindley, Jr. 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Eleanor Lindley 60 pounds current money, and I do leave William Lindley 60 pounds current money and I do leave Thomas Lindley, Jr. 60 pounds current money, all children of my daughter Ruth Lindley, wife to Thomas Lindley and I do leave Deborah Lindley 60 pounds current money.

I do leave to my grandchildren, Hannah Taylor wife of Joseph Taylor, 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Caleb Johnson 60 pounds current money and I do leave to John Johnson 60 pounds current money, and I do leave to Freeman Johnson 60 pounds current money, and I do leave to Jonathan Johnson 60 pounds current money, and I do leave to Isaac Johnson 60 pounds current money, all children to my daughter Katherine Johnson, wife to Robert Johnson.

I do leave to my grandchildren to-wit; Sarah Smith Gregg, 55 pounds current money, and I do leave to Jacob Gregg 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Ruth Gregg 5 pounds current money, and I do leave William Gregg 60 pounds current money, and I do leave Miriam Gregg 60 pounds current money and I do leave Deborah Gregg 60 pounds current money and I do leave Phoebe Gregg 60 pounds current money, all of them children of my daughter Ann Gregg, widow and relict of Richard Gregg departed.

NOTE - John Lindley was twice set down in a mistake and when I found the mistake I erased it with my own hand. Deborah Lindley was born in North Carolina and I did not remember to get her name down in the proper place, but I do give the said sum set down on the other side.

And it is my will that as many of my said grandchildren which are at age at my decease, that my executors shall pay them their legacies left them by me one year after my decease, and all my said grandchildren which are not of age, I do order my said executors to give it into the hands of the parents of said grandchildren, the giving bond and security with interest for the same for the benefit of their children, and my said grandchildren, to be paid one year after my decease to said parents, but if they refuse to comply as above, then I do order my said executors to put out the said legacy left by me to my said grandchildren into good hands at interest, and pay them as above when they come of age with the interest of said legacy at 21 years or day of marriage which first shall happen .

It is my will that if sum my grandchildren depart this life before they come to age or before, unmarried, that their legacy left them by me shall be equally divided among their survivors, and it is my will that if any of my granddaughters or grandsons' wives should have any more children before my decease or be pregnant, that then my said executors shall put to ....................................

I do leave to my nephew Thomas Kiernan, the sum of 10 pounds current money.

I do leave to my said wife's children to wit; John Buffington, one pistole, Richard Buffington one pistole, Phoebe Wall one pistole, Peter Buffington one pistole, Isaac Buffington one pistole, Joseph Buffington 10 pounds current money to be paid them one year after my decease and what bonds, notes or accounts be payable to me from any of my grandchildren or their husbands, must be discounted out of the legacy left them by me, and I hereby constitute make and ordain my trusty and well-beloved grand-son-in-law, James Thompson and my trusted and well beloved grandson, John Hadley and my worthy and well-loved friend, Daniel Nichols, all of them in Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, yeomen, my executors of this my last will and testament, and I do hereby revoke and make void all former wills made by me at any time heretofore, and I do leave my executors 30 pounds current money to each of them, for their care and trouble they will have about the managing and settling of my said estate, which said sum shall be in full for their care and trouble and shall not have more for their commission, nor any other charge against my said estate on that account, but I do allow my said executors shall have commissions for what just money shall be received by them arising out of the legacies left by me to my said grandchildren until they respectively arrive at the age above said, and I do desire and request my trusty friends Benjamin Swett of the town of New Castle, Esq. and Samuel Gregg of Christiana Hundred and county above said, yeomen, to be overseers, to see that my last will and testament be well and truly performed, and for their care and trouble I do leave to each of them the sum of 5 pounds current money, to be paid by the said executors, and it is my will that what is left to my said son, Joseph Hadley, should be kept in my said executors' hands and give it to him at several times as they see it is necessary for it.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and my seal this 3rd day of November, one-thousand-seven-hundred and fifty five (1745).

Note before signing and sealing: It is my will that if any of my grandchildren should fall heir to any of the above said tracts of land by the death of him or them which I have willed to, then it is my will that he or they which shall fall heir to said estate or estates, shall not have the said fifty pounds willed to them by me as above, but shall be equally divided as above to the surviving grandchildren.

Signed, Sealed, pronounced and declared by the said Simon Hadley to be his last will and testament in the presence of us the subscribers."

This old will, yellowed with age and held together with a hand-made pin, was found by Chalmers Hadley in the courthouse at Wilmington, Delaware in August 1908. An abstract of the will was printed in the Ò Calendar of Delaware Wills, New Castle County, 1682-1800 by the Colonial Dames of Delaware. The number of bequests by Simon Hadley were 68, including 48 of his 50 grandchildren, greater than any other in the calendar. His estate amounted to about 615 acres and 2,110 pounds sterling, which was considered well-to-do in those days.

No inventory of Simon Hadley's estate was found with the will. Aside from a few faded words the will was easily deciphered and it was signed by Simon Hadley in a firm, round hand. (Signature of Simon Hadley)

ESTATE NOTICE; November 24, 1757 The Pennsylvania Gazette

All Persons indebted to the Estate of SIMON HADLEY, Esq. late of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle, deceased, by Bond, Bill, Book, or Debt, or otherwise, are hereby desired to make speedy Payment of their respective Debts, otherwise they may expect to be delth with as the Law directs, without further Notice: And those who have any Demands against the said Estate, to bring in their Accounts immediately, that they may be settled and paid by James Thompson and John Hadley, Executors.

[December Meeting, 1921. Historical notes from the Records of Augusta County, Virginia, part II (concluded)

By Charles E. Kemper, Staunton, VA, read by Charles I. Landis]

p. 148 "On January 5, 1737-8, Michael DOUGHERTY was a resident of New Londonderry Township, Chester County, PA., and executed his bond to Simon HADLEY, Yeoman, of Mill Creek Hundred (Delaware)....."

3. page 13, v I 4. from: "A Hadley Genealogy" Vol III, pub by the Hadle y Genealogical Soc. of So. Calif.; 1974, page vi. Simon Hadley II, b in 1675 in County Kings (now Offaly), Ireland, broug ht his wife Ruth and six children to America during the year 1712. He pu rchased 1000 acres of land about 35 mi southwest of Philadelphia, where h e lived until his death in 1756. In 1717 he build a house on ;his acreag e, which was so well constructed that now, after 250 years, it is still ( 1973) standing and occupied. The house is located on Line Stone Rd, Hock essin, DE, about 10 miles northwest of Wilmington, DE, off from Route 41.

Simon was prominent and successful farmer. He was also an active membe r of the New Garden MM, located in New Garden Twp, Chester Co., PA, to th e north of his farm. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1726, re -appointed in 1727 and 1733. He further served at various times as Judg e of the New Castle (DE) Courts.

Supplement by John William Hadley 29 Aug 1999 (incomplete)

Generation II - Simon Hadley II - Immigrant to Americ a

Simon Hadley II was born about 1675 in Ireland. He married Ruth Keran a bout 1697 and the had the following children: Joseph, born 25 October 1698, married Amy Gregg ; Deborah, born 25 April 1701, married Benjamin Fred ; Joshua born 6 May 1703, married 1) Mary Rowland 2) Patience Brown ; Simon, born 23 February 1704, died 4 January 1731 ; Hannah, born 15 Jan 1710, married (1 Thomas Dixon 2) John Stanfield ; Ruth, born 6 February 1712, married Thomas Lindley ; Katherine, born 25 April 1715, married Robert Johnson; Anne, born 7 Fe bruary 1718, married Richard Gregg.1

When Simon I moved from Dublin to Moate in 1694, he had probably sold h is business and purchased land in the Quaker Community of Moate. Simon I I married Ruth Keran about 1697 in Moate. When Simon I died in 1711, Sim on II was not mentionrd in the will, and it has been supposed that his fa ther had already provided for him. It is a possibility that Simon Jr. wa s under some durress prior to his father's demise. The facts that there i s no record of the ship they came to Pennsylvania aboard, and also that t hey did not petition for removal until 1716, support this notion. It' s a possibility that Simon Jr. was in trouble with the authorities, lef t in a hurry, and didn't turn up until 1716. In early eighteenth centur y Ireland, the Quakers and other "radical" (for the time) religious group s were getting vigorous harassment from the English-controlled establishm ent. They were forced to take oaths and pay tithes. When Simon II recei ved his inheritance, he was likely anxious to leave for Pennsylvania, th e "promised land" for Friends.

Simon and Ruth came to Pennsylvania in 1712 but the ship they came on h as never been discovered. They may have been uncertain about their plan s on staying, as their certificate of removal was not received from the M oate Meeting until 6, 4, 1716.

(2) They purchased a large tract of land in what was then the Manor of S teyning, later New Garden Township, Chester Co., Pennsylvania. This mano r contained over 15,000 acres, about 30 miles from Philadelphia. Other l andowners in Steyning Manor were the Lindleys, Starrs, Huttons, Rutledges , Millers, Rowlands, and Johnsons. Many of them had been "friends" in Ir eland, and others related by blood or marriage.

(3)In 1713 the Friends of Steyning Manor built a meeting house and Simo n Hadley II was one of the four trustees named to hold land for the Meeti ng. The early community was comprised of mostly temporary first homes . In 1717 Simon built a house that was referred to as a mansion in its t ime. The house has a pointed gable window in the front with a white ston e slab sunk into the wall. On the slab is carved "S + R.H. 1717", the in itials of Simon and his wife Ruth. The house is still standing today (19 99) and has continually been inhabited for 2 3/4 centuries. Simons estat e was called Messuage Plantation. In 1726, Simon Hadley was appointed Justice of the Peace by Governor Flet cher, who was acting for the Penns. He was recommissioned seven years la ter and served in this capacity for many years.

(4) He also served as Judge of the Newcastle County Courts.

(5)As Simon's sons grew to manhood, he helped them by granting them lan d of their own. In 1726, Simon made over a tract to his son Joshua Hadle y (our ancestor). The deed is preserved in Westchester, PA and reads a f ollows:

"To all Christian people to whom these presents shall come, I Simon H adly of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, sen d greetings. Know ye that I, Simon Hadly, for and in consideration of th e love, goodwill, and affection which I have and do bear towards my livin g son, Joshua Hadley of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle af oresaid, have given and granted and by these present do fully, freely, cl early and absolutely give and grant unto the said Joshua Hadly, his heir s and assigns all that piece or parcel of land, thence East by the land o f Joseph Hadly one-hundred-seventy and nine perches to a post, thence Nor th one-hundred-seventy and nine perches to a Mulberry tree, thence West o ne-hundred-seventy and nine perches to a post thence South by the land o f Daniel Worsly one-hundred-seventy and nine perches to the place of begi nning, containing two hundred acres situated in Mill Creek Hundred in th e County of New Castle aforesaid, together with the right, title, interes t, claim, and demand whatsoever which I now have or which any or either o f my heirs , executors, administrators, or assigns may hereafter have of , to, or in the said granted premises or any part thereof to have and t o hold the said two-hundred acres of land unto him the said Joshua Hadly , his heirs and assigns forever absolutely without any manner of conditio n, as I , said Simon Hadly, have fully and freely and absolutely and of m y own accord seat and put in further testimony in witness whereof I hav e hereunto seat my hand and seal this twelfth day of the tenth month in t he year one-thousand-seven-hundred and twenty-six."

(6)Two years later, in 1728, Joshua filed a request, through his father , to the Provincial Board of Property in Philadelphia for an additional 1 ,000 acres on Fishing Creek.

(7)After half a century of marriage, Simon lost his wife, Ruth, who die d 12 mo. 18, 1751. Simon then made out his first will, that divided hi s lands, possessions, and moneys between his children and grandchildren . Simon remarried Phoebe Grubb Buffington, a minister among Friends. ...........

My wife (Phoebe) hath a desire for to see thee for she hath a writing t o draw and she is desirous that thou should draw it, therefore I desire t hee come as soon as possible and thow wilt oblige thy friend to serve the e, Simon Hadly. I have got some money for thee from John Buhoman"

(8) By this time, 1754, the Delaware line had been drawn directly throug h Simons land, placing his legal residence in New Castle, Delaware . Family legend says Simon was killed in his stone barn by a servant for th e large sum of money he is said to have carried with him at all times. T here are no records to prove this, but from a letter written by Hannah (H adly) Stanfield from North Carolina to her stepmother (Phoebe), it is sho wn that Simon died suddenly in 1756.

"Respected Mother This comes to let thee know that I and my family is in good health at p resent, hoping that these few lines will find thee and thine in the same , and I have great cause to be thankful to the Divine Being for it. I re ceived thy letter dated the 31st of the 5th month 1756, and was glad to h ear of thy welfare and a true account of my respected fathers sudden dea th. Thy brother, Richard Beson, was here at my house a few days ago. H e told me that his wife and family was well and all of our friends here i s reasonably well as far as I know, so not having much more to add, I sha ll conclude with my love to thee and thine and remain they loving daughte r, ye 24th of ye 7th month, 1756. Hannah Stanfield" (9) ...........

Simon Hadleys last will made several changes from his earlier one. Thes e include some 600 acres of land not mentioned but in the the previous wi ll. The land was probably granted to his eldest sons, Joseph and Joshua , who were barely remembered compared to Simons grandchildren. The last w ill was written in 1755 and recorded in 1756 and reads as follows:

"Know all men by these presents that I, Simon Hadly of Mill Creek Hu ndred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, yeoman, calling to mind th e mortality of my body, do make and ordain this my last will and testamen t, and as touching such worldly estate where-with it has pleased God to b less me in this life, I do give, devise and dispose of the same in the ma nner and form following: First, it is my will that my funeral charge an d just debts be first paid.

It is my will and I do leave my beloved wife, Phoebe Hadly _____poun ds, current money to be paid her six months after my death, to be paid b y my executors, hereinafter mentioned, her chaise and chaise-horse, my ri ding mare and the two best cows I have, besides what I have left her in m y marriage settlement with her, and as much of the furniture of the hous e as she will think fit to take, to the value of ________pounds and no mo re, which shall be in full of my real and personal estate.

Imprimus, _____I give, devise and bequeath unto my grandson Simon Ha dley, son of my son Joshua Hadley, the Messuage plantation and tract of l and I now live on, bounded and described as follows: Viz. Beginning a t a corner post, being a corner of Jacob Johns lands thence by his line e ast 300 perches to a corner white oak in the Manor line, thereon south b y the said line 217 perches to a corner hickory, thence west by the lan d now seated by my grandson, John Hadley, 73 perches to a post, thence no rth 31 degrees, west 38 perches to a black oak, thence north 50 degrees w est 48 perches and a half to a gum tree, thence north 60 degrees west 13 7 perches and a half to another gum, thence north 20 degrees, west 19 per ches to a post, thence north 69 degrees, 59 perches to a post in Willia m Rows line, thence north by the same 46 perches to the place of beginnin g, contain - 260 acres be the same more or less, making the bounds afores aid, with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging, to hol d to him, my said grandson, Simon Hadley, and the male heirs of his bod y lawfully begotten forever, but if my said grandson should depart this l ife without lawful issue, then it is my will and I do give and devise th e same Messuage plantation and tract of land unto my grandson, Jeremiah H adley, son of my said son, Joshua Hadley, to hold to him and the male hei rs of his body lawfully begotten forever, but if he should depart this li fe without male heirs as above, then and in such case I give and devise a nd bequeath the said Messuage plantation and tract of land and premises u nto the next male heirs as consanguinity to him and the male heirs of hi s body lawfully begotten forever. I also give and bequeath unto my sai d grandson, Simon Hadley, my clock and walnut clothes press which stand s in one of the upper rooms and the sum of ten pounds lawful money, all o f which several bequests to be possessed by him when he shall arrive at t he respective age of twenty-one years.

I give and bequeath unto my grandson, Simon Johnson, son of Robert J ohnson, certain plantation and tract of land lying contiguous to the abov e land devised to my grandson, Simon Hadley, bounded and described as fol loweth; (Viz, Beginning at a corner mulberry tree being a corner of a co rner post of the above land devised to my said grandson, Simon Hadley, th ence south 69 degrees, east by the said tract 59 perches to a post and so uth 20 degrees, east 19 perches to a gum tree and south 60 degrees, eas t 137 perches and a half to another gum and south 50 degrees, west 48 per ches and a half to a corner black oak and south 31 degrees, east 38 perch es to a corner post in a line of the land seated by my said grandson Joh n Hadley, thence west by the same 57 perches to a corner black oak in a l ine of the aforesaid Robert Johnson land, thence north by the same 37 per ches to the place of the beginning, containing by estimation 112 acres b e the same more or less within the bounds aforesaid, with the hereditamen ts and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining, to h old to him, my said grandson, Simon Johnson, and the male heirs of his bo dy lawfully begotten forever, but if he my said grandson, Simon Johnson s hould happen to depart this life without male heirs as above, then and i n such case I give, devise and bequeath the said tract of land and premis es unto the next male heirs by consanguinity to him, my said grandson, an d the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever, to be possessed b y my said grandson when he shall arrive at the respective age of twenty- one years.

I do give and bequeath to my grandson, John Hadley, son of my son Jo seph Hadley, and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever , a plantation or tract of land hereinafter mentioned. but if he should d epart this life without male heirs, then in such case, it is my will an d I do give and bequeath the said plantation and tract of land to the nex t male heir by blood to him and his heirs forever, said plantation and tr act of land to be bounded as followeth; Beginning at a corner black oak i n the line of the said Robert Johnsons land, thence east 130 perches t o a corner hickory tree in the said Manor line, thence by the said line s outh 185 perches to a corner oak sapling (faded out) containing within th e said bounds 150 acres of land, be the same more or less, and I do beque ath to my said grandson, John Hadley, ten pounds current money.

I do give and bequeath a plantation or tract of land to _________ Jo hnson in the Letitia Aubrey Manor containing 93 acres and 66 perches of l and. I have a deed for the same and recorded in the name of my grandson , Simon Gregg, son of Richard Gregg departed, and Anne his wife, my daugh ter, to him and male heirs of his body lawfully begotten as above, but sh ould he depart this life, it is my will and I do give the said plantatio n and tract of land to the next male heirs by blood to him and the male h eirs of his body legally begotten forever, and it is my will that my exec utors hereinafter named, rent the above plantations to good tenants unti l my said grandsons arrive #at the age of twenty-one years, that all of m y said grandsons shall pay the ___________due on each of their plantation s when lawfully ____(faded out)_____.

I do leave my said son, Joseph Hadley , half of my wearing apparel a nd ten pounds current money, which shall be his full portion and share o f my real and personal estate.

I do leave my daughter, Deborah Howel, wife of Jacob Howel, ten poun ds current money and I do leave to the said Jacob Howel, ten pounds curre nt money, which shall be in full their portion and share of my real and p ersonal estate.

I do leave to my daughter, Hannah Stanfield, widow of John Stanfield , fifty pounds current money which shall be paid in full of her portion a nd share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my daughter, Ruth Lindley, wife to Thomas Lindley, te n pounds current money, which shall be their full share of my real and pe rsonal estate. I do leave to my daughter, Katherine Johnson, wife to Ro bert Johnson, the sum of ten pounds of current money, and I do leave to t he said Robert Johnson, the sum of ten pounds current money, which shal l be their full share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my daughter Anne Gregg, widow of Richard Gregg departe d, the sum of forty pounds current money which shall be in full of her po rtion and share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave my son, Joshua Hadley, ten pounds current money and half of m y wearing apparel which shall be in full of his portion and share of my r eal and personal estate.

I do leave to my grand-daughter, Elizabeth Thompson, wife to James T hompson, forty pounds current money and I do leave to my grand-daughter , Deborah Curle, wife of John Curle the sum of five pounds of current mon ey, and to my grand-daughter Hannah Curle, wife to Samuel Curle the sum o f forty pounds current money, all of them children of my son Joseph Hadle y.

I do leave to my grand-children Ruth Marshall, wife to John Marshall , the sum of twenty pounds current money, and I do leave to Thomas Hadley , the sum of forty pounds current money, and I do leave to Sarah Fred, wi fe to Joseph Fred, the sum of fifty pounds current money, and I do leav e to Mary Hadley the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leave t o Jeremiah Hadley the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leave t o Joshua Hadley, Jr. the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leav e to Joseph Hadley Jr. the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do le ave Deborah Hadley sixty pounds current money and I do leave Hannah Hadle y the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Catherine Hadley , the sum of sixty pounds current money, all of them children of my son J oshua Hadley.

I do leave to my grand-children to wit, I do leave to Simon Dixon fi fty-five pounds current money, and I do leave Rebecca Marshall wife to Wi lliam Marshall, thirty pounds current money and I do leave Ruth Dixon six ty pounds current money and I do leave to John Stanfield, Jr. the sum o f fifty pounds current money, and I do leave Thomas Stanfield fifty pound s current money, and I do leave Samuel Stanfield fifty pounds current mon ey, all of them children of my said daughter Hannah Stanfield, widow an d relict of John Stanfield departed.

I do leave to my grandchildren, to Catherine Lindley, sixty pounds c urrent money, and I do leave James Lindley sixty pounds current money, an d I do leave Simon Lindley sixty pounds current money and I do leave Rut h Lindley, sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Mary Lindley, Jr. s ixty pounds current money, and I do leave Eleanor Lindley sixty pounds cu rrent money, and I do leave William Lindley sixty pounds current money an d I do leave Thomas Lindley, Jr. sixty pounds current money, all childre n of my daughter Ruth Lindley, wife to Thomas Lindley and I do leave Debo rah Lindley sixty pounds current money.

I do leave to my grandchildren, Hannah Taylor wife of Josep h Taylor, sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Caleb Johnson sixt y pounds current money and I do leave to John Johnson sixty pounds curren t money, and I do leave to Freeman Johnson sixty pounds current money, an d I do leave to Jonathan Johnson sixty pounds current money, and I do lea ve to Isaac Johnson sixty pounds current money, all children to my daught er Katherine Johnson, wife to Robert Johnson.

I do leave to my grandchildren to-wit; Sarah Smith Gregg, fifty-fiv e pounds current money, and I do leave to Jacob Gregg sixty pounds curren t money, and I do leave Ruth Gregg five pounds current money, and I do le ave William Gregg sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Miriam Greg g sixty pounds current money and I do leave Deborah Gregg sixty pounds cu rrent money and I do leave Phoebe Gregg sixty pounds current money, all o f them children of my daughter Ann Gregg, widow and relict of Richard Gre gg departed.

NOTE - John Lindley was twice set down in a mistake and when I found th e mistake I erased it with my own hand. Deborah Lindley was born in Nort h Carolina and I did not remember to get her name down in the proper plac e, but I do give the said sum set down on the other side.

And it is my will that as many of my said grandchildren which are at ag e at my decease, that my executors shall pay them their legacies left the m by me one year after my decease, and all my said grandchildren which ar e not of age, I do order my said executors to give it into the hands of t he parents of said grandchildren, the giving bond and security with inter est for the same for the benefit of their children, and my said grandchil dren, to be paid one year after my decease to said parents, but if they r efuse to comply as above, then I do order my said executors to put out th e said legacy left by me to my said grandchildren into good hands at inte rest, and pay them as above when they come of age with the interest of sa id legacy at twenty-one years or day of marriage which first shall happen .

It is my will that if sum my grandchildren depart this life before they c ome to age or before, unmarried, that their legacy left them by me shal l be equally divided among their survivors, and it is my will that if an y of my granddaughters or grandsons' wives should have any more childre n before my decease or be pregnant, that then my said executors shall pu t to ....................................

I do leave to my nephew Thomas Kiernan, the sum of ten pounds current mon ey.

I do leave to my said wife's children to wit; John Buffington, one pistol e, Richard Buffington one pistole, Phoebe Wall one pistole, Peter Buffing ton one pistole, Isaac Buffington one pistole, Joseph Buffington ten poun ds current money to be paid them one year after my decease and what bonds , notes or accounts be payable to me from any of my grandchildren or thei r husbands, must be discounted out of the legacy left them by me, and I h ereby constitute make and ordain my trusty and well-beloved grand-son-in- law, James Thompson and my trusted and well beloved grandson, John Hadle y and my worthy and well-loved friend, Daniel Nichols, all of them in Mil l Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, yeomen, my execu tors of this my last will and testament, and I do hereby revoke and mak e void all former wills made by me at any time heretofore, and I do leav e my executors thirty pounds current money to each of them, for their car e and trouble they will have about the managing and settling of my said e state, which said sum shall be in full for their care and trouble and sha ll not have more for their commission, nor any other charge against my sa id estate on that account, but I do allow my my said executors shall hav e commissions for what just money shall be received by them arising out o f the legacies left by me to my said grandchildren until they respectivel y arrive at the age above said, and I do desire and request my trusty fri ends Benjamin Swett of the town of New Castle, Esq. and Samuel Gregg of C hristiana Hundred and county above said, yeomen, to be overseers, to se e that my last will and testament be well and truly performed, and for th eir care and trouble I do leave to each of them the sum of five pounds cu rrent money, to be paid by the said executors, and it is my will that wha t is left to my said son, Joseph Hadley, should be kept in my said execut ors hands and give it to him at several times as they see it is necessar y for it.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and my seal this 3rd day o f November, one-thousand-seven-hundred and fifty five (1745).

Note before signing and sealing: It is my will that if any of my gra ndchildren should fall heir to any of the above said tracts of land by th e death of him or them which I have willed to, then it is my will that h e or they which shall fall heir to said estate or estates, shall not hav e the said fifty pounds willed to them by me as above, but shall be equal ly divided as above to the surviving grandchildren.

Signed, Sealed, pronounced and declared by the said Simon Hadley to be hi s last will and testament in the presence of us the subscribers."

This old will, yellowed with age and held together with a hand-mad e pin, was found by Chalmers Hadley in the courthouse at Wilmington, Dela ware in August 1908. An abstract of the will was printed in the ÒCalenda r of Delaware Wills, New Castle County, 1682-1800 by the Colonial Dame s of Delaware. The number of bequests by Simon Hadley were 68, includin g 48 of his 50 grandchildren, greater than any other in the calendar. Hi s estate amounted to about 615 acres and 2,110 pounds sterling, which wa s considered well-to-do in those days.

No inventory of Simon Hadley's estate was found with the will. Aside fr om a few faded words the will was easily deciphered and it was signed b y Simon Hadley in a firm, round hand. (Signature of Simon Hadley)

ESTATE NOTICE; November 24, 1757 The Pennsylvania Gazette

All Persons indebted to the Estate of SIMON HADLEY, Esq. late of Mil l Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle, deceased, by Bond, Bill, Bo ok, or Debt, or otherwise, are hereby desired to make speedy Payment of t heir respective Debts, otherwise they may expect to be delth with as th e Law directs, without further Notice: And those who have any Demands aga inst the said Estate, to bring in their Accounts immediately, that they m ay be settled and paid by James Thompson and John Hadley, Executors.

3. page 13, v I 4. from: "A Hadley Genealogy" Vol III, pub by the Hadle y Genealogical Soc. of So. Calif.; 1974, page vi. Simon Hadley II, b in 1675 in County Kings (now Offaly), Ireland, broug ht his wife Ruth and six children to America during the year 1712. He pu rchased 1000 acres of land about 35 mi southwest of Philadelphia, where h e lived until his death in 1756. In 1717 he build a house on ;his acreag e, which was so well constructed that now, after 250 years, it is still ( 1973) standing and occupied. The house is located on Line Stone Rd, Hock essin, DE, about 10 miles northwest of Wilmington, DE, off from Route 41.

Simon was prominent and successful farmer. He was also an active membe r of the New Garden MM, located in New Garden Twp, Chester Co., PA, to th e north of his farm. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1726, re -appointed in 1727 and 1733. He further served at various times as Judg e of the New Castle (DE) Courts.

Supplement by John William Hadley 29 Aug 1999 (incomplete)

Generation II - Simon Hadley II - Immigrant to Americ a

Simon Hadley II was born about 1675 in Ireland. He married Ruth Keran a bout 1697 and the had the following children: Joseph, born 25 October 1698, married Amy Gregg ; Deborah, born 25 April 1701, married Benjamin Fred ; Joshua born 6 May 1703, married 1) Mary Rowland 2) Patience Brown ; Simon, born 23 February 1704, died 4 January 1731 ; Hannah, born 15 Jan 1710, married (1 Thomas Dixon 2) John Stanfield ; Ruth, born 6 February 1712, married Thomas Lindley ; Katherine, born 25 April 1715, married Robert Johnson; Anne, born 7 Fe bruary 1718, married Richard Gregg.1

When Simon I moved from Dublin to Moate in 1694, he had probably sold h is business and purchased land in the Quaker Community of Moate. Simon I I married Ruth Keran about 1697 in Moate. When Simon I died in 1711, Sim on II was not mentionrd in the will, and it has been supposed that his fa ther had already provided for him. It is a possibility that Simon Jr. wa s under some durress prior to his father's demise. The facts that there i s no record of the ship they came to Pennsylvania aboard, and also that t hey did not petition for removal until 1716, support this notion. It' s a possibility that Simon Jr. was in trouble with the authorities, lef t in a hurry, and didn't turn up until 1716. In early eighteenth centur y Ireland, the Quakers and other "radical" (for the time) religious group s were getting vigorous harassment from the English-controlled establishm ent. They were forced to take oaths and pay tithes. When Simon II recei ved his inheritance, he was likely anxious to leave for Pennsylvania, th e "promised land" for Friends.

Simon and Ruth came to Pennsylvania in 1712 but the ship they came on h as never been discovered. They may have been uncertain about their plan s on staying, as their certificate of removal was not received from the M oate Meeting until 6, 4, 1716.

(2) They purchased a large tract of land in what was then the Manor of S teyning, later New Garden Township, Chester Co., Pennsylvania. This mano r contained over 15,000 acres, about 30 miles from Philadelphia. Other l andowners in Steyning Manor were the Lindleys, Starrs, Huttons, Rutledges , Millers, Rowlands, and Johnsons. Many of them had been "friends" in Ir eland, and others related by blood or marriage.

(3)In 1713 the Friends of Steyning Manor built a meeting house and Simo n Hadley II was one of the four trustees named to hold land for the Meeti ng. The early community was comprised of mostly temporary first homes . In 1717 Simon built a house that was referred to as a mansion in its t ime. The house has a pointed gable window in the front with a white ston e slab sunk into the wall. On the slab is carved "S + R.H. 1717", the in itials of Simon and his wife Ruth. The house is still standing today (19 99) and has continually been inhabited for 2 3/4 centuries. Simons estat e was called Messuage Plantation. In 1726, Simon Hadley was appointed Justice of the Peace by Governor Flet cher, who was acting for the Penns. He was recommissioned seven years la ter and served in this capacity for many years.

(4) He also served as Judge of the Newcastle County Courts.

(5)As Simon's sons grew to manhood, he helped them by granting them lan d of their own. In 1726, Simon made over a tract to his son Joshua Hadle y (our ancestor). The deed is preserved in Westchester, PA and reads a f ollows:

"To all Christian people to whom these presents shall come, I Simon H adly of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, sen d greetings. Know ye that I, Simon Hadly, for and in consideration of th e love, goodwill, and affection which I have and do bear towards my livin g son, Joshua Hadley of Mill Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle af oresaid, have given and granted and by these present do fully, freely, cl early and absolutely give and grant unto the said Joshua Hadly, his heir s and assigns all that piece or parcel of land, thence East by the land o f Joseph Hadly one-hundred-seventy and nine perches to a post, thence Nor th one-hundred-seventy and nine perches to a Mulberry tree, thence West o ne-hundred-seventy and nine perches to a post thence South by the land o f Daniel Worsly one-hundred-seventy and nine perches to the place of begi nning, containing two hundred acres situated in Mill Creek Hundred in th e County of New Castle aforesaid, together with the right, title, interes t, claim, and demand whatsoever which I now have or which any or either o f my heirs , executors, administrators, or assigns may hereafter have of , to, or in the said granted premises or any part thereof to have and t o hold the said two-hundred acres of land unto him the said Joshua Hadly , his heirs and assigns forever absolutely without any manner of conditio n, as I , said Simon Hadly, have fully and freely and absolutely and of m y own accord seat and put in further testimony in witness whereof I hav e hereunto seat my hand and seal this twelfth day of the tenth month in t he year one-thousand-seven-hundred and twenty-six."

(6)Two years later, in 1728, Joshua filed a request, through his father , to the Provincial Board of Property in Philadelphia for an additional 1 ,000 acres on Fishing Creek.

(7)After half a century of marriage, Simon lost his wife, Ruth, who die d 12 mo. 18, 1751. Simon then made out his first will, that divided hi s lands, possessions, and moneys between his children and grandchildren . Simon remarried Phoebe Grubb Buffington, a minister among Friends. ...........

My wife (Phoebe) hath a desire for to see thee for she hath a writing t o draw and she is desirous that thou should draw it, therefore I desire t hee come as soon as possible and thow wilt oblige thy friend to serve the e, Simon Hadly. I have got some money for thee from John Buhoman"

(8) By this time, 1754, the Delaware line had been drawn directly throug h Simons land, placing his legal residence in New Castle, Delaware . Family legend says Simon was killed in his stone barn by a servant for th e large sum of money he is said to have carried with him at all times. T here are no records to prove this, but from a letter written by Hannah (H adly) Stanfield from North Carolina to her stepmother (Phoebe), it is sho wn that Simon died suddenly in 1756.

"Respected Mother This comes to let thee know that I and my family is in good health at p resent, hoping that these few lines will find thee and thine in the same , and I have great cause to be thankful to the Divine Being for it. I re ceived thy letter dated the 31st of the 5th month 1756, and was glad to h ear of thy welfare and a true account of my respected fathers sudden dea th. Thy brother, Richard Beson, was here at my house a few days ago. H e told me that his wife and family was well and all of our friends here i s reasonably well as far as I know, so not having much more to add, I sha ll conclude with my love to thee and thine and remain they loving daughte r, ye 24th of ye 7th month, 1756. Hannah Stanfield" (9) ...........

Simon Hadleys last will made several changes from his earlier one. Thes e include some 600 acres of land not mentioned but in the the previous wi ll. The land was probably granted to his eldest sons, Joseph and Joshua , who were barely remembered compared to Simons grandchildren. The last w ill was written in 1755 and recorded in 1756 and reads as follows:

"Know all men by these presents that I, Simon Hadly of Mill Creek Hu ndred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, yeoman, calling to mind th e mortality of my body, do make and ordain this my last will and testamen t, and as touching such worldly estate where-with it has pleased God to b less me in this life, I do give, devise and dispose of the same in the ma nner and form following: First, it is my will that my funeral charge an d just debts be first paid.

It is my will and I do leave my beloved wife, Phoebe Hadly _____poun ds, current money to be paid her six months after my death, to be paid b y my executors, hereinafter mentioned, her chaise and chaise-horse, my ri ding mare and the two best cows I have, besides what I have left her in m y marriage settlement with her, and as much of the furniture of the hous e as she will think fit to take, to the value of ________pounds and no mo re, which shall be in full of my real and personal estate.

Imprimus, _____I give, devise and bequeath unto my grandson Simon Ha dley, son of my son Joshua Hadley, the Messuage plantation and tract of l and I now live on, bounded and described as follows: Viz. Beginning a t a corner post, being a corner of Jacob Johns lands thence by his line e ast 300 perches to a corner white oak in the Manor line, thereon south b y the said line 217 perches to a corner hickory, thence west by the lan d now seated by my grandson, John Hadley, 73 perches to a post, thence no rth 31 degrees, west 38 perches to a black oak, thence north 50 degrees w est 48 perches and a half to a gum tree, thence north 60 degrees west 13 7 perches and a half to another gum, thence north 20 degrees, west 19 per ches to a post, thence north 69 degrees, 59 perches to a post in Willia m Rows line, thence north by the same 46 perches to the place of beginnin g, contain - 260 acres be the same more or less, making the bounds afores aid, with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging, to hol d to him, my said grandson, Simon Hadley, and the male heirs of his bod y lawfully begotten forever, but if my said grandson should depart this l ife without lawful issue, then it is my will and I do give and devise th e same Messuage plantation and tract of land unto my grandson, Jeremiah H adley, son of my said son, Joshua Hadley, to hold to him and the male hei rs of his body lawfully begotten forever, but if he should depart this li fe without male heirs as above, then and in such case I give and devise a nd bequeath the said Messuage plantation and tract of land and premises u nto the next male heirs as consanguinity to him and the male heirs of hi s body lawfully begotten forever. I also give and bequeath unto my sai d grandson, Simon Hadley, my clock and walnut clothes press which stand s in one of the upper rooms and the sum of ten pounds lawful money, all o f which several bequests to be possessed by him when he shall arrive at t he respective age of twenty-one years.

I give and bequeath unto my grandson, Simon Johnson, son of Robert J ohnson, certain plantation and tract of land lying contiguous to the abov e land devised to my grandson, Simon Hadley, bounded and described as fol loweth; (Viz, Beginning at a corner mulberry tree being a corner of a co rner post of the above land devised to my said grandson, Simon Hadley, th ence south 69 degrees, east by the said tract 59 perches to a post and so uth 20 degrees, east 19 perches to a gum tree and south 60 degrees, eas t 137 perches and a half to another gum and south 50 degrees, west 48 per ches and a half to a corner black oak and south 31 degrees, east 38 perch es to a corner post in a line of the land seated by my said grandson Joh n Hadley, thence west by the same 57 perches to a corner black oak in a l ine of the aforesaid Robert Johnson land, thence north by the same 37 per ches to the place of the beginning, containing by estimation 112 acres b e the same more or less within the bounds aforesaid, with the hereditamen ts and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining, to h old to him, my said grandson, Simon Johnson, and the male heirs of his bo dy lawfully begotten forever, but if he my said grandson, Simon Johnson s hould happen to depart this life without male heirs as above, then and i n such case I give, devise and bequeath the said tract of land and premis es unto the next male heirs by consanguinity to him, my said grandson, an d the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever, to be possessed b y my said grandson when he shall arrive at the respective age of twenty- one years.

I do give and bequeath to my grandson, John Hadley, son of my son Jo seph Hadley, and the male heirs of his body lawfully begotten forever , a plantation or tract of land hereinafter mentioned. but if he should d epart this life without male heirs, then in such case, it is my will an d I do give and bequeath the said plantation and tract of land to the nex t male heir by blood to him and his heirs forever, said plantation and tr act of land to be bounded as followeth; Beginning at a corner black oak i n the line of the said Robert Johnsons land, thence east 130 perches t o a corner hickory tree in the said Manor line, thence by the said line s outh 185 perches to a corner oak sapling (faded out) containing within th e said bounds 150 acres of land, be the same more or less, and I do beque ath to my said grandson, John Hadley, ten pounds current money.

I do give and bequeath a plantation or tract of land to _________ Jo hnson in the Letitia Aubrey Manor containing 93 acres and 66 perches of l and. I have a deed for the same and recorded in the name of my grandson , Simon Gregg, son of Richard Gregg departed, and Anne his wife, my daugh ter, to him and male heirs of his body lawfully begotten as above, but sh ould he depart this life, it is my will and I do give the said plantatio n and tract of land to the next male heirs by blood to him and the male h eirs of his body legally begotten forever, and it is my will that my exec utors hereinafter named, rent the above plantations to good tenants unti l my said grandsons arrive #at the age of twenty-one years, that all of m y said grandsons shall pay the ___________due on each of their plantation s when lawfully ____(faded out)_____.

I do leave my said son, Joseph Hadley , half of my wearing apparel a nd ten pounds current money, which shall be his full portion and share o f my real and personal estate.

I do leave my daughter, Deborah Howel, wife of Jacob Howel, ten poun ds current money and I do leave to the said Jacob Howel, ten pounds curre nt money, which shall be in full their portion and share of my real and p ersonal estate.

I do leave to my daughter, Hannah Stanfield, widow of John Stanfield , fifty pounds current money which shall be paid in full of her portion a nd share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my daughter, Ruth Lindley, wife to Thomas Lindley, te n pounds current money, which shall be their full share of my real and pe rsonal estate. I do leave to my daughter, Katherine Johnson, wife to Ro bert Johnson, the sum of ten pounds of current money, and I do leave to t he said Robert Johnson, the sum of ten pounds current money, which shal l be their full share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave to my daughter Anne Gregg, widow of Richard Gregg departe d, the sum of forty pounds current money which shall be in full of her po rtion and share of my real and personal estate.

I do leave my son, Joshua Hadley, ten pounds current money and half of m y wearing apparel which shall be in full of his portion and share of my r eal and personal estate.

I do leave to my grand-daughter, Elizabeth Thompson, wife to James T hompson, forty pounds current money and I do leave to my grand-daughter , Deborah Curle, wife of John Curle the sum of five pounds of current mon ey, and to my grand-daughter Hannah Curle, wife to Samuel Curle the sum o f forty pounds current money, all of them children of my son Joseph Hadle y.

I do leave to my grand-children Ruth Marshall, wife to John Marshall , the sum of twenty pounds current money, and I do leave to Thomas Hadley , the sum of forty pounds current money, and I do leave to Sarah Fred, wi fe to Joseph Fred, the sum of fifty pounds current money, and I do leav e to Mary Hadley the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leave t o Jeremiah Hadley the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leave t o Joshua Hadley, Jr. the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leav e to Joseph Hadley Jr. the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do le ave Deborah Hadley sixty pounds current money and I do leave Hannah Hadle y the sum of sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Catherine Hadley , the sum of sixty pounds current money, all of them children of my son J oshua Hadley.

I do leave to my grand-children to wit, I do leave to Simon Dixon fi fty-five pounds current money, and I do leave Rebecca Marshall wife to Wi lliam Marshall, thirty pounds current money and I do leave Ruth Dixon six ty pounds current money and I do leave to John Stanfield, Jr. the sum o f fifty pounds current money, and I do leave Thomas Stanfield fifty pound s current money, and I do leave Samuel Stanfield fifty pounds current mon ey, all of them children of my said daughter Hannah Stanfield, widow an d relict of John Stanfield departed.

I do leave to my grandchildren, to Catherine Lindley, sixty pounds c urrent money, and I do leave James Lindley sixty pounds current money, an d I do leave Simon Lindley sixty pounds current money and I do leave Rut h Lindley, sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Mary Lindley, Jr. s ixty pounds current money, and I do leave Eleanor Lindley sixty pounds cu rrent money, and I do leave William Lindley sixty pounds current money an d I do leave Thomas Lindley, Jr. sixty pounds current money, all childre n of my daughter Ruth Lindley, wife to Thomas Lindley and I do leave Debo rah Lindley sixty pounds current money.

I do leave to my grandchildren, Hannah Taylor wife of Josep h Taylor, sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Caleb Johnson sixt y pounds current money and I do leave to John Johnson sixty pounds curren t money, and I do leave to Freeman Johnson sixty pounds current money, an d I do leave to Jonathan Johnson sixty pounds current money, and I do lea ve to Isaac Johnson sixty pounds current money, all children to my daught er Katherine Johnson, wife to Robert Johnson.

I do leave to my grandchildren to-wit; Sarah Smith Gregg, fifty-fiv e pounds current money, and I do leave to Jacob Gregg sixty pounds curren t money, and I do leave Ruth Gregg five pounds current money, and I do le ave William Gregg sixty pounds current money, and I do leave Miriam Greg g sixty pounds current money and I do leave Deborah Gregg sixty pounds cu rrent money and I do leave Phoebe Gregg sixty pounds current money, all o f them children of my daughter Ann Gregg, widow and relict of Richard Gre gg departed.

NOTE - John Lindley was twice set down in a mistake and when I found th e mistake I erased it with my own hand. Deborah Lindley was born in Nort h Carolina and I did not remember to get her name down in the proper plac e, but I do give the said sum set down on the other side.

And it is my will that as many of my said grandchildren which are at ag e at my decease, that my executors shall pay them their legacies left the m by me one year after my decease, and all my said grandchildren which ar e not of age, I do order my said executors to give it into the hands of t he parents of said grandchildren, the giving bond and security with inter est for the same for the benefit of their children, and my said grandchil dren, to be paid one year after my decease to said parents, but if they r efuse to comply as above, then I do order my said executors to put out th e said legacy left by me to my said grandchildren into good hands at inte rest, and pay them as above when they come of age with the interest of sa id legacy at twenty-one years or day of marriage which first shall happen .

It is my will that if sum my grandchildren depart this life before they c ome to age or before, unmarried, that their legacy left them by me shal l be equally divided among their survivors, and it is my will that if an y of my granddaughters or grandsons' wives should have any more childre n before my decease or be pregnant, that then my said executors shall pu t to ....................................

I do leave to my nephew Thomas Kiernan, the sum of ten pounds current mon ey.

I do leave to my said wife's children to wit; John Buffington, one pistol e, Richard Buffington one pistole, Phoebe Wall one pistole, Peter Buffing ton one pistole, Isaac Buffington one pistole, Joseph Buffington ten poun ds current money to be paid them one year after my decease and what bonds , notes or accounts be payable to me from any of my grandchildren or thei r husbands, must be discounted out of the legacy left them by me, and I h ereby constitute make and ordain my trusty and well-beloved grand-son-in- law, James Thompson and my trusted and well beloved grandson, John Hadle y and my worthy and well-loved friend, Daniel Nichols, all of them in Mil l Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle on Delaware, yeomen, my execu tors of this my last will and testament, and I do hereby revoke and mak e void all former wills made by me at any time heretofore, and I do leav e my executors thirty pounds current money to each of them, for their car e and trouble they will have about the managing and settling of my said e state, which said sum shall be in full for their care and trouble and sha ll not have more for their commission, nor any other charge against my sa id estate on that account, but I do allow my my said executors shall hav e commissions for what just money shall be received by them arising out o f the legacies left by me to my said grandchildren until they respectivel y arrive at the age above said, and I do desire and request my trusty fri ends Benjamin Swett of the town of New Castle, Esq. and Samuel Gregg of C hristiana Hundred and county above said, yeomen, to be overseers, to se e that my last will and testament be well and truly performed, and for th eir care and trouble I do leave to each of them the sum of five pounds cu rrent money, to be paid by the said executors, and it is my will that wha t is left to my said son, Joseph Hadley, should be kept in my said execut ors hands and give it to him at several times as they see it is necessar y for it.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and my seal this 3rd day o f November, one-thousand-seven-hundred and fifty five (1745).

Note before signing and sealing: It is my will that if any of my gra ndchildren should fall heir to any of the above said tracts of land by th e death of him or them which I have willed to, then it is my will that h e or they which shall fall heir to said estate or estates, shall not hav e the said fifty pounds willed to them by me as above, but shall be equal ly divided as above to the surviving grandchildren.

Signed, Sealed, pronounced and declared by the said Simon Hadley to be hi s last will and testament in the presence of us the subscribers."

This old will, yellowed with age and held together with a hand-mad e pin, was found by Chalmers Hadley in the courthouse at Wilmington, Dela ware in August 1908. An abstract of the will was printed in the ÒCalenda r of Delaware Wills, New Castle County, 1682-1800 by the Colonial Dame s of Delaware. The number of bequests by Simon Hadley were 68, includin g 48 of his 50 grandchildren, greater than any other in the calendar. Hi s estate amounted to about 615 acres and 2,110 pounds sterling, which wa s considered well-to-do in those days.

No inventory of Simon Hadley's estate was found with the will. Aside fr om a few faded words the will was easily deciphered and it was signed b y Simon Hadley in a firm, round hand. (Signature of Simon Hadley)

ESTATE NOTICE; November 24, 1757 The Pennsylvania Gazette

All Persons indebted to the Estate of SIMON HADLEY, Esq. late of Mil l Creek Hundred in the County of New Castle, deceased, by Bond, Bill, Bo ok, or Debt, or otherwise, are hereby desired to make speedy Payment of t heir respective Debts, otherwise they may expect to be delth with as th e Law directs, without further Notice: And those who have any Demands aga inst the said Estate, to bring in their Accounts immediately, that they m ay be settled and paid by James Thompson and John Hadley, Executors.